The main causes of splenomegaly in liver cirrhosis

Generally, splenomegaly in cirrhosis is mainly caused by portal hypertension, intrahepatic bile stasis, bacterial infection, hypersplenism, and splenic vein inflammation. If discomfort occurs, please seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Portal Hypertension

Cirrhosis causes liver fibrosis, damaging the venous system within the liver, which may obstruct blood return through the portal vein and elevate portal pressure, thus causing the above symptoms. When necessary, endoscopic sclerotherapy or band ligation for esophageal and gastric varices may be performed.

2. Intrahepatic Bile Stasis

During cirrhosis, damaged hepatocytes may lead to reduced synthesis and excretion of bile acids, resulting in bile stasis. Bile stasis not only affects the circulation of bile acids within the liver but may also flow back into the portal venous system, aggravating liver damage and portal hypertension, indirectly contributing to splenomegaly. It is recommended to improve liver function and avoid medications that may worsen bile stasis.

3. Impaired Hepatocyte Regeneration

Poor hepatocyte regeneration can not only affect the liver's detoxification and metabolic functions but may also indirectly promote splenomegaly by influencing portal hemodynamics. Symptoms such as elevated transaminase levels and coagulation disorders may occur. Under the guidance of a qualified physician, medications such as hepatoprotective tablets, compound glycyrrhizin tablets, and reduced glutathione tablets may be used for treatment.

4. Hypersplenism

Portal hypertension can cause splenic congestion, enhancing the spleen's filtering function, which destroys excessive red blood cells and platelets, leading to hypersplenism and resulting in splenomegaly. Symptoms may include fatigue and pallor. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as silybinin tablets, folic acid tablets, and vitamin B12 tablets for treatment.

5. Splenic Vein Inflammation

Liver damage caused by cirrhosis may increase the risk of splenic vein infection. Splenic vein inflammation causes thickening of the vein wall, lumen narrowing or occlusion, thereby affecting blood drainage from the spleen and causing splenomegaly. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as diosmin tablets, furosemide tablets, and ibuprofen tablets.

In daily life, it is important to increase intake of high-quality protein, such as fish, lean meat, and soy products, which can help meet the body's nutritional needs.